Born at Reims, France, on 30 April 1651, of an illustrious family, Saint John Baptist de la Salle made himself, from childhood, dear to all by the virtues of his Soul, the gentleness of his nature and the keenness of his mind. He went to Paris to study Theology at The Sorbonne. At seventeen, he was a Canon of the Cathedral.

When he reached the Priesthood, he offered The Holy Sacrifice with fervent Faith and intense love; these never left him when he was at the Altar. God had raised him "to give a Christian education to the Poor and to confirm youths in the way of truth" (Collect). With this object in view, he Founded a new Religious Congregation which he called "Brothers of The Christian Schools" and which soon spread throughout the World.

Out of humility and out of love for poverty, he gave up his Canonry and gave all he had to the Poor (Epistle). "Inflamed with zeal for the salvation of Souls, he spent himself during his whole life," says The Breviary, "for their greatest good." Assiduously treating himself with rigour, in fastings, flagellations and other austerities, he passed the night in Prayer (Introit).

Such was his manner of life, until, remarkable for every virtue, especially for his obedience, his zeal for the accomplishment of The Divine Will, his love and devotion towards The Apostolic See, and loaded with merits, he fell asleep in The Lord, at Rouen, France, on Good Friday, 7 April 1719, at the age of sixty-eight."

After striving to pass his life in the most humble duties, by serving Jesus in little children (Gospel), he was called to Heaven by The Divine Redeemer Whose Glory he shares, and Who still Blesses his work throughout the World.

"Let us burn with zeal like this Saint to procure The Glory of God by saving Souls, so that we may share his reward in Heaven" (Collect).

Another proper Mass is said in the Houses of The Brothers of Christian Schools.